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Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 4)
We propose a dual-mode instrument that saves power by using the passive polarimetric radiometer for the majority of its orbit, switching to scatterometer-mode only when heavy rains limit passive measurement of ocean vector winds. We expect the proposed work to result in a design for a sensor that measures ocean vector winds with equivalent accuracy to traditional instruments, while fitting in a 3-6U CubeSat.
The eventual constellation of these combined, active/passive microwave wind sensors may affordably measure global ocean vector winds nearly hourly at similar cost to a single scatterometer mission, advancing our understanding of the Earth system and our ability to forecast and monitor the weather.
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